Aiden Markram smashes fastest World Cup ton as South Africa amass record total

NEW DELHI: South African batter Aiden Markram on Saturday delivered a breathtaking performance, smashing a century in just 49 balls, a new world record for the fastest hundred in 50-overs World Cup cricket. This remarkable feat contributed to South Africa amassing a record-breaking total of 428-5 against a subdued Sri Lanka side.
Markram’s century overshadowed the previous record set by Ireland’s Kevin O’Brien, who had scored a 50-ball hundred against England during the 2011 World Cup.

South Africa’s top-order batters had a phenomenal day, with Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen also notching up rapid centuries, adding to the team’s impressive total. De Kock scored 100 runs, while van der Dussen reached 108, forming a formidable 204-run partnership that left Sri Lanka deflated.
Even after the departure of de Kock and van der Dussen, it was Markram who continued to punish the Sri Lankan bowlers. His extraordinary innings included 14 fours and three sixes, showcasing his aggressive and commanding batting style.

South Africa’s batting display was nothing short of spectacular, setting a new benchmark for World Cup totals and securing their dominance in the match.
It was a historic day for South Africa as this match marked the first time in World Cup history where three centuries were scored by a single team in the same innings, highlighting South Africa’s outstanding performance with the bat.
(With Agency inputs)